Democracy for Citizens Party (DCP) Deputy Leader Cleophas Malala has explained why senior opposition figures skipped the airport reception for former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua upon his return from the United States, dismissing speculation of cracks within the coalition.
Speaking on Friday from Gachagua’s Karen residence, where allies and supporters gathered, Malala clarified that the absence of Wiper Party leader Kalonzo Musyoka, Martha Karua of the People’s Liberation Front (PLP), Democratic Action Party of Kenya (DAP-K) leader Eugene Wamalwa, and former Interior CS Fred Matiang’i was deliberate.
According to Malala, intelligence reports had pointed to a plan to block opposition leaders expected to proceed from Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) to Kamukunji grounds. He alleged that goons had been mobilised along Mombasa Road to cause chaos.
“To avert possible disruptions, the principals resolved not to converge at the airport. Their absence was strategic,” Malala stated. “The reception at JKIA was strictly a DCP affair, while the rally at Kamukunji was the broader opposition event.”
Malala reassured supporters that the coalition remained united despite rival narratives suggesting internal divisions. He emphasized that the leaders were working to protect their supporters from state intimidation and heavy police presence.
“I know the wish of the other side is to see us divided. But our unity remains firm. We had even planned to attend Harambee Stars’ match, but threats and intimidation have been constant,” he noted.
Later in the day, Kalonzo Musyoka paid a visit to Gachagua at his Karen home, a move widely seen as reinforcing the spirit of unity within the alliance. The two leaders, together with other opposition figures, watched Harambee Stars’ CHAN 2024 quarter-final clash against Madagascar, projecting a picture of camaraderie.
Malala concluded that Friday’s events showed the alliance’s ability to adapt to threats while maintaining focus on its agenda. “Our unity is intact, and our resolve remains unshaken,” he affirmed.
